Over a decade ago, promises echoed on political platforms in Suriname, proclaiming the disappearance of security grilles from the streets. However, after the elected government took office in 2010, this turned out to be mere rhetoric after two terms. The Boss had failed to fulfill his promise. In the lead-up to the 2020 elections, politicians once again conjured up the pressing issue of security. This time, the Sheriff, with his seemingly positive image as a no-nonsense crime fighter, gained enough credits to liberate the people from the grip that held them. The case of Roger Khan notably contributed to the Minister of Justice and Police’s coffers during the 2005-2010 government.

It appears that history has not enlightened politicians in this country that the hot topic of security is not a political scoring mechanism but a matter of national importance. The security issue does not belong to a specific politician, political party, or its affiliated organization; it is a crucial subject that should be on the national agenda. No one can claim to be the best crime fighter or amateur. A timeless agenda that transcends the political mill of government leaders should be the driving force.

Several months ago, I pointed out in an interview the increased dangers looming within society, the repercussions of mismanagement, and the often irreparable effects on the socio-cultural landscape. In 2021 and 2022, I proactively offered my expertise in integral security to the Surinamese police and security services. In my view, Suriname’s focus is excessively operational, neglecting aspects like integrity, risk management, assistance, delinquency care, and reintegration, among others. Unfortunately, the offered expertise was not fully utilized, seemingly due to a lack of realization that security encompasses more than firearms, batons, handcuffs, and uniforms with or without epaulets. I won’t delve into transportation, housing, and resources, as the priorities set by successive governments have been misguided.

To my surprise, I read in various media outlets that the President has pressured the Ministers of Justice and Defense. This follows a recent series of brutal crimes in various parts of the country. The President has urged the ministers to take immediate action and deliver tangible results; otherwise, the issue of security will be directed from the President’s office. Does this indicate the incompetence of certain ministers, or is it finally a move towards the much-promised second half of this fragile coalition?

The reality is that severe crime is not under control, and it won’t be in the short term, a public secret. However, we can no longer turn a blind eye to the reality, and there’s a potential danger that citizens may take matters into their own hands. The trust in services responsible for national security has seemingly hit rock bottom. It’s time for the true experts in the government to do what they excel at. The Sheriff should wield his baton and handcuffs once again, becoming the crime fighter of yesteryears, with former police officers Kenneth and Krishna providing assistance. It might also be beneficial for societal perception that the President’s position is slightly too elevated for the Sheriff. The temporary filling of the crime-fighting position can still be presented as a trump card, serving the national interest. After all, it is becoming increasingly clear every day that we are dealing with a government of “NOT the right persons in the right place!”

Dr. Robert Vishnudatt